South Africa

South Africa is one of the most multicultural countries in the world; there are many different ethnic groups in the urban areas. This makes it more difficult to follow proper protocol and etiquette for people have different values and cultural ideas. For example, due to colonization and immigration there are many Europeans, Indians, Indo-Malays, Chinese and as well as the indigenous tribes. As a result, how one should conduct their selves depends on their audience. For example, people from Johannesburg have materialistic values and are more interested in your possessions than you yourself. People from Cape Town are proud of their city and feel superior. They also value family and relationships.
While there are different values and customs even within the country, it is important to give a handshake and maintain eye contact. However, women don’t shake hands, only nodding their head. However, it is important to realize that greetings are leisurely and allow for social discussion. When staying with someone, it is proper to bring flower, good chocolates and a bottle of good South African wine. If you decide to wrap your gift, it is important that it is done well. If it is done nicely, it shows extra effort.
If you are dining with someone, it is good to arrive on time (as expected). One should also contact the hostess to see if he or she should bring a dish. You can expect to wear casual clothes, but you should check with the hostess beforehand. However, different parts of the country have different dress styles. For example, Johannesburg dresses more fancy. Do not wear jeans or shorts unless you have spoken to the hosts.